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Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm

Ulmus x 'Morton Glossy'

Compiled by · Reviewed against the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List, CSU Extension & Plant Select® · Updated 2026-07-03

Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm (Ulmus x 'Morton Glossy') is a tree suited to the Colorado Front Range, rated "Recommended" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List. It matures to about 50–60 ft tall and 35–40 ft wide, fast-growing, needs low to medium water, and prefers full sun. Elm leaf beetle; No scale.

Site fitRecommended
low to medium water50–60 ft tall and 35–40 ft wideXeric / water-wiseDeer-resistant

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At a glance

Rating
Recommended
Botanical name
Ulmus x 'Morton Glossy'
Variety / cultivar
TRIUMPH® Elm
Type
Tree
Mature size
50–60 ft tall and 35–40 ft wide
Mature form
Vase-shaped
Spacing / clearance
~40 ft of clearance
Hardiness zones
USDA 4–9
Growth rate
Fast
Lifespan
Medium
Fall color
Yellow
Water needs
low to medium water
Sun
Best in full sun.
Colorado native
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Soil
clay, loam, sandy
Soil pH
6.0–8.2
Hail tolerance
moderate
Wind tolerance
moderate
Salt tolerance
moderate
Pollinator value
low

Site factors to consider

Wildlife & ecology

Pollinator value
low
Deer
Generally deer-resistant

Common problems on the Front Range

These are general tendencies for this group of plants on the Front Range, not a diagnosis. Many are stress-driven and preventable with good siting and watering. For a specific plant or an active problem, consult a certified arborist or your local CSU Extension office.

Planting & establishment

Water deeply every 7–10 days through the first 2 summers. Winter water 1–2×/month October–March when soil is dry and unfrozen, winter desiccation is a top killer of newly-planted trees. Year 3: taper to 2×/month in summer, then rely on natural precipitation.

Frequently asked questions

Is Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm good for the Colorado Front Range?
Yes, Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm is a well-suited tree for Colorado's Front Range, rated "Recommended" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List.
How big does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm get?
It matures to about 50–60 ft tall and 35–40 ft wide.
How much room does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm need?
Give Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm about 40 ft of clearance from buildings, fences, and other trees so the mature canopy isn't crowded.
What shape does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm grow into?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm typically grows into a vase shape, a narrower base flaring to a high, arching crown that lifts over a patio or street. This is the species' usual mature form, named cultivars (columnar, weeping, or compact selections) can differ, so check the specific cultivar.
Is Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm hardy on the Front Range?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm is hardy in USDA 4–9. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b–6a, so it is well within range.
How much water does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm need?
It needs low to medium water once established.
How fast does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm grow?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm is a fast-growing tree. Growth rate depends on water and site conditions on the Front Range.
How long does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm live?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm has a moderate lifespan for a Front Range tree. Actual lifespan varies with site, water, and care.
What color does Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm turn in fall?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm turns yellow in autumn. Fall color intensity varies with the season and site on the Front Range.
Is Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm native to Colorado?
No. It is not a Colorado native, but it grows well on the Front Range.
Is Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm deer-resistant?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm is generally considered deer-resistant, though no plant is deer-proof when browse pressure is high.
Is Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm prone to pests or disease on the Front Range?
Elm, TRIUMPH® Elm can be affected by dutch elm disease (esp. American elm) and other issues common to this group on the Front Range. These are general tendencies, not a diagnosis, many are stress-driven and preventable with good siting and watering. For a specific plant or an active problem, consult a certified arborist or CSU Extension.

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See also

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